The Dangers of Ocean Acidity

Steve Scher
04/06/2006 at 9:00 a.m.

Are humans changing the chemistry of the world's oceans by burning fossil fuels? Is carbon dioxide a threat to coral reefs and marine ecosystems?The problem starts with fuels like coal and gas that release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The excess carbon dioxide contributes to global warming. But carbon dioxide is not just making things hotter. It's also changing the chemistry of the world's oceans. Is the 'acidification' of seawater a threat to the future of coral reefs and other living organisms?

Guests:
Dr. Christopher L. Sabine oceanographer at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory in Seattle. They study the problem of acidification in the ocean.
Dr. Richard A. Feely oceanographer at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory in Seattle. They study the problem of acidification in the ocean.